Banditry: Defence Minister leads high-level military team to Sokoto
Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has spearheaded a high-level military delegation to Sokoto State, the Headquarters of 8 Division of the Nigerian Army, as part of moves aimed at tackling escalating banditry in the country.
Accompanied by key military leaders, including the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI), Major General Emmanuel Undiandeye and other Senior military Officers, Matawalle’s visit underscores the government’s intensified commitment to restoring stability in the North West.
The Minister and the Chiefs were received and briefed by the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander, Joint Task Force North West Operation Hadarin Daji, Brigadier General Ajose on the situation on the ground, the progress of ongoing operations, and the strategic steps being taken to dismantle the criminal networks operating in the region.
The Minister of State for Defence issued a directive last Friday, instructing the Chief of Defence Staff to move swiftly to Sokoto and oversee the military’s efforts to bring an end to the banditry that has terrorised communities across the North West.
Matawalle has emphasised his commitment to the cause by leading the mission in person. While at Sokoto, he commended the military’s efforts so far in the fight against banditry, reiterating the Federal Government’s support for the military and assured them that all necessary resources would be provided to ensure the success of the mission.
“The safety and security of our citizens in the North West is a top priority for the government. We are here today to ensure that all efforts are being made to end this menace once and for all. Our military has the full backing of the government, and we will do whatever it takes to restore peace and stability to this region,” Dr. Matawalle stated.
He also emphasised the importance of collaboration between the military and community to effectively combat the sophisticated tactics employed by the bandits.
He urged the local communities to cooperate with the security forces by providing timely and accurate information that would aid in the swift apprehension of the criminals.
The move is perceived by the people of the North West region to bring hope to the security situation that has been prevalent and affecting ease of livelihood. The renewed and concerted effort will hopefully bring an end to the cycle of violence that has disrupted lives for too long.
VON
